Rancho Cucamonga Quakes To Be Purchased By Bretts

By MLB.com | March 17, 2009 11:38 AM

Rancho Cucamonga, CA- Rancho Cucamonga Quakes President and Majority Owner Hank Stickney has announced that the team will be sold to a group led by Bobby Brett and his brother, Baseball Hall-of-Famer George Brett.

Valley Baseball Club, Inc. has owned the Rancho Cucamonga Quakes since the team's arrival in Rancho Cucamonga in 1993. The Stickney led group had moved the Quakes from San Bernardino, where they were known as the San Bernardino Spirit.

Under Valley Baseball Club's guidance, the Quakes have lead the California League in attendance each year of existence. The team has also been a leading force in providing the Inland Empire with an affordable family entertainment option, while developing many community related programs and promotions. The Quakes won the prestigious Minor League Baseball Freitas Award in 1997 for A-Classification Baseball.

"I have been involved with many teams over the years and this experience has definitely been the most rewarding. The enthusiasm and support of our fans are second to none. Even after this sale I am confident that the Quakes will continue with their brand of excellence, their great relationship with the Los Angeles Angels, and their continued partnership with the City of Rancho Cucamonga to make the Epicenter an amazing destination for years to come." Stickney said.

The Brett family has a long history of owning minor league teams. Bobby and George Brett lead ownership groups that own the Spokane Chiefs Hockey Club of the Western Hockey League, the High Desert Mavericks Baseball Club of the California League and the Bellingham Bells Baseball Club of the West Coast League. Additionally, Bobby Brett leads an ownership group that owns the Spokane Indians Baseball Club of the Northwest League and George Brett leads a group that owns the Tri-City Dust Devils Baseball Club of the Northwest League.

"The Rancho Cucamonga Quakes are one of the premier franchises in Minor League Baseball and we are excited about the future of this organization," said Bobby Brett, who will serve as the managing partner of the Quakes. "The stadium and community are terrific."

The sale is subject to the approval of the California League, Minor League Baseball and Major League Baseball, and is projected to close sometime this summer.

The Quakes begin their 2009 season on April 9th with a game at Inland Empire. The 2009 home opener will be held April 13th when the Quakes host Visalia at the Epicenter.

-Shake, Rattle, and Roll-

This story was not subject to the approval of the National Association of Professional Baseball Leagues or its clubs.